A union leader has some optimism for job growth next year but the question is “how quickly,” says David Newby, President of the Wisconsin State AFL-CIO. He believes the key to jump starting the economy is investing in the work force with certain policies that won’t “break the bank” such as extending unemployment loss benefits and offering job training.
Newby also says more can be done at the federal level. This includes ensuring affordable health care and integrating United Nations agreements on child labor, environmental protection and workplace safety into international trade mandates.
“It’s not something that makes it impossible to manufacture in China or manufacture in Pakistan,” says Newby.
He says American manufacturers are at a competitive disadvantage when abiding by these fair practices when other countries don’t have to.
AUDIO: Brian Moon reports (1:02)